—a pleasant fragrance—and they discovered large bones. They declared, “These bones show the mighty stature of the inhabitants of Paradise,” and, on nothing more than conjecture, concluded, “This is Noah’s grave.” Yet in that very tract of land there were many deceased persons of the same build as the one buried there. (1)

• Likewise, some people assert that the shrine in Asqalan is the tomb of one of the disciples—or another follower—of Jesus son of Mary.

• At the graves of idolaters one may encounter phenomena similar to those found at the graves of believers from our community; indeed, some go so far as to claim—pure surmise—that it is al-Ḥusayn’s grave.

• A shaykh well known in Cairo for his knowledge and piety was reported to have said that the site is in fact a Christian’s grave.

• Similarly, on the eastern side of Damascus there is a shrine said to be the grave of Ubayy ibn Kaʿb. Yet scholars unanimously agree that Ubayy never came to Damascus; he died in Medina. Hence some people say that the shrine marks a Christian grave, and this is by no means improbable.

For Jews and Christians are the leading figures in venerating graves and shrines. Therefore the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—said in the rigorously authenticated hadith: “May Allah curse the Jews and Christians; they turned the graves of their prophets into places of worship,” warning against following their example. (2) (3)